An art gallery and an art museum are two different types of venues used to display artwork. Both institutions serve the purpose of allowing people to view and appreciate art, but they differ in their overall missions, collections, and services.
Art Gallery: An art gallery is a business that sells artwork created by living artists. Art galleries generally specialize in a particular type of artwork such as paintings, photographs, sculptures, or prints. The primary purpose of an art gallery is to promote and sell the work of living artists. Galleries may also host exhibitions or other special events for the public.
Art Museum: An art museum is an institution that collects and exhibits artwork from various periods in history. Art museums typically focus on preserving artwork from past centuries or from cultures around the world. Museums also have educational programs that help teach visitors about the history, culture, and meaning behind the artwork on display. They may also offer tours or lectures for visitors to learn more about the artwork and its creators.
The Difference: The main difference between an art gallery and an art museum lies in the focus of each institution. Art galleries are businesses that primarily promote and sell contemporary artwork created by living artists while art museums focus on preserving historical works from past centuries or from different cultures around the world. Additionally, galleries may offer exhibitions or special events while museums often have educational programs with lectures and tours.
In conclusion, an art gallery is a business that sells contemporary works created by living artists while an art museum collects and preserves historical works from past centuries or from different cultures around the world. Both institutions serve to allow people to view and appreciate artwork; however, they differ in their overall missions, collections, services offered, and focus.